How jumping genes affect our DNA and health
How transposable elements drive genome evolution through epigenetic mechanisms
This project aims to understand how "jumping genes" in our DNA contribute to diseases like cancer by changing how our genes work.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11121085 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies contain special DNA segments called transposable elements, or "jumping genes," which can move around and make up a large part of our genetic code. While these jumping genes can cause inherited disorders and cancers, we don't fully understand how they affect our health. This project focuses on how these jumping genes can change the way our other genes function, not just by physically disrupting DNA, but also by altering the chemical tags on our DNA and the 3D structure of our genome. By exploring these hidden effects, we hope to uncover new ways these jumping genes influence disease development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not recruiting patients directly but aims to benefit individuals affected by inherited disorders and various cancers, including breast and colon cancer.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or clinical trial opportunities would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of how certain diseases, including cancers, develop, potentially opening doors for new ways to prevent or treat them.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds on recent pioneering discoveries by the researcher, exploring previously overlooked ways that jumping genes affect our genetic makeup.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Grace Yuh Chwen — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Lee, Grace Yuh Chwen
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.